Tag Archives: Trappist Provisions

1. Hog’s Apothecary

Hog’s Apothecary just passed its one-year anniversary in Temescal, and it already seems like a neighborhood fixture. With 33 local craft brews on tap — some may come from as far away as the Pacific Northwest — and a Cicerone (beer sommelier) on staff, this place takes its beer seriously. (There are also bottles, and a few wines and sodas). Chef-owner John Streit has designed a menu that is pork-heavy (with a name like that, is that a surprise?) offering charcuterie, sausages and lard-fried potato chips, but there are plenty of non-pork and vegetarian options, too. Communal tables encourage conversation, especially about what beer you’re drinking. Tip: Though a casual place, it’s extremely popular, and those in the know make reservations on OpenTable. Also, while you may discover your new favorite beer there, don’t count on it to be there the next time you go; taps change constantly, as does the menu. Follow the business on Facebook to learn what new beers are being poured. Hog’s Apothecary is at 375 40th St., Oakland. Hours: Sunday, Wednesday and Thursday from 5-11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to midnight. Closed Tuesdays. … Continue reading »

Sierra Nevada, the craft brewing company known for its pale ale, is planning to open a tasting room on Fourth Street by the end of the year.

The Chico-based company will serve around 16 different types of beer in a 1,700-square-foot space in the Read Building at 2031 Fourth St., next door to Title Nine. There will be a long bar and a number of high tables. The emphasis will be on beer, not food.

“It will be a small, intimate tasting room,” said Sierra Nevada spokesman Ryan Arnold. “It will not be a place where you get a meal or lounge around. We want you to be next to the bar where you are engaged with the staff, learning about beer.” … Continue reading »

Bites is Nosh’s round-up of restaurant and bar news in the East Bay. Got a tip or a scoop? Send it our way at nosh@berkeleyside.com. Christina Mitchell, founder of East Bay Dish, is the main voice behind Bites, with a little help from the staff at Berkeleyside.

Freshly Served…

TIMELESS COFFEE As the former roaster for Sightglass Coffee in San Francisco, RJ Leimpeter seriously cut down his commute after opening Timeless Coffee in his neighborhood in December. He serves Sightglass Coffee with soy or almond milk — and no dairy alternatives. But don’t worry, my almond latte was creamy and completely satisfying. (Leimpeter also said he has plans to roast his own beans after he gets settled in.) All of the chocolate and baked goods are vegan too, but you would never know it if you didn’t ask. Violet Slocum has baking experience at Café Gratitude and Bittersweet and her brownie was thick, tender and flavorful, like no other vegan brownie I’ve ever experienced. Timeless Coffee, 4252 Piedmont Ave., Oakland. … Continue reading »